Mango prices in India have seen a reduction following Gudi Padwa, the traditional Hindu New Year in Maharashtra. This period typically marks a shift in market dynamics, influencing both wholesale and retail sectors.
Rohan Ursal, a commission agent at Pune's Market Yard, noted that prices stabilize post-festival. He explained, "Two days before Gudi Padwa, the wholesale rates fall significantly. In retail, the rates do not fall as much as in wholesale. People stop buying raw mangoes before Gudi Padwa as they want to sell ready mangoes."
Ratnagiri Devgad mangoes, previously priced at Rs 1,600-1,800 ($19-22) per dozen, are now available at Rs 1,000-1,300 ($12-16). Ursal highlighted that most varieties are priced Rs 500-600 ($6-7) lower than pre-festival rates. Comparing with the previous year, he stated, "The price of Alphonso mango from Karnataka, which was sold at approximately Rs 300-500 ($4-6) a dozen last year, increased to Rs 600-800 ($7-10) this year," attributing this to supply shortages.
Current demand remains low, with consumers hesitant to purchase in bulk. Ursal observed, "People ate during Gudi Padwa. Someone who would need five crates has taken at least one crate to taste. People are waiting for the prices to fall further."
Climatic factors, such as delayed rains and heat waves, have impacted harvesting. Ursal mentioned, "Farmers from Karnataka have been complaining that there was a delay in flowering because the rain continued for longer than usual. But sales are expected to start late in April. We have incurred almost a month's loss."
Yuvraj Kachi, another agent, reported, "The previous year, the market rate was Rs 500-700 ($6-9) per dozen during Gudi Padwa, and during the same time this year, the rates were Rs 800-1,600 ($10-20)." He cited a 40% reduction in mango picking in the Konkan region due to climate challenges.
Source: The Indian Express